Furniture Product Quality Overview
In the construction of Office Furniture, there are many
styles, finishes and overall product quality levels. Generally,
the pricing structure of most products is determined by the
choice of materials used in the manufacturing of the products.
Particle Board
All Comparable manufacturers use Particle Board as the basic
element in the products. Varying degrees of board density
(graded on a PSI numbered scale) determine the strength and
durability of the raw board (generally the higher the number,
the greater the board density, and in effect the greater the
board strength).
All Star products are manufactured with 45 PSI particle
board, considered "Commercial Grade" and the finest density
reading you'll find in the industry. Many manufacturers will use
particle board with PSI readings of between 15 and 30, which
drastically reduces the cost of the product, but in turn puts a
severe strain on the overall product quality.
All STAR products are constructed with "Commercial Grade"
Thermally Fused Laminate (TFL), and all boards are finished on
all sides to ensure optimum strength and durability.
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Laminate Finishes
A major determining factor in the overall product quality is
the finish of the raw board. The following briefly describes the
most common laminate finishes:
Veneer
A very thin slice of wood that is thermally applied with glue
to the board. This method requires very special handling and
care, and is very susceptible to scratching. Final state
includes a wood stain for colour and is finished with a
lacquer or varnish. The most expensive method of finishing
particle board.
High Pressure Laminate (HPL)
A highly durable and scratch resistant melamine that is
thermally glued to the particle board. A very time consuming
application process that adds great expense to the overall
cost of the finished goods.
Thermally Fused Laminate (TFL)
A commercial grade laminate that is highly durable and almost
as scratch resistant as the high-pressure laminate. This
method thermally fuses the laminate to the particle board
making it impossible to peel. This method, in conjunction with
high-density particle board makes for the best quality product
the most competitive price. (STAR uses this laminate type.)
Resin Foil Paper
The economical method selected by many manufacturers to meet
with budget-oriented products with less emphasis on the
product strength and durability. Process requires thin sheets
of paper to be glued to the particle board. Very susceptible
to peeling and bubbling, board warping and scratches. This is
usually used in conjunction with lower-density particle board
which jeopardizes the overall quality of the product.
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